The emotional work about publishing life in the manga industry wins the award for Best Graphic Novel at the LA Times Book Prizes.
On April 25, the renowned American newspaper Los Angeles Times announced that the manga “Tokyo These Days” (Tōkyō Higoro) by author Taiyo Matsumoto was the winner in the Graphic Novel/Comic category in the 45th edition of the LA Times Book Prizes. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding literary works in different genres, and Matsumoto’s victory consolidates his work as one of the most relevant in contemporary graphic media.
An introspective history of the publishing world
Published in English by VIZ Media, the manga narrates the last days of editor Shiozawa, who, upon retirement, relives memories of the past while helping young editors and mangakas with whom he shared years of work. The story is steeped in nostalgia, deep creative bonds, and an intimate take on the relationship between manga creators and their publishers, in a melancholic Tokyo that serves as a setting and metaphor for the passage of time.
A career marked by originality
Matsumoto began publishing Tokyo These Days in Shogakukan’s Big Comic Original Zōkan magazine in June 2019, concluding the series in June 2023. The work was compiled in three volumes, the third being published by VIZ Media in September 2024.
This is not the author’s first international recognition. In the past, works such as Tekkonkinkreet, Sunny, and Ping Pong had already been acclaimed, with adaptations in both film and anime. Michael Arias is currently working on an animated adaptation of Sunny under the production of GKIDS, reinforcing the global impact of Matsumoto’s legacy.
A well-deserved tribute to memory and art
“Tokyo These Days” not only represents a story about the manga publishing industry, but also a tribute to human relationships, life cycles, and the importance of memories. Matsumoto’s sensibility has touched readers all over the world, and this award confirms it: his work continues to resonate beyond the borders of manga.
